In the wake of the October 7, 2023, Hamas terror attacks against Israel, Jewish Federations of North America mobilized a historic campaign in support of the Jewish state, collectively raising over $900 million. And, when the time of immediate emergency began to fade, Federations shifted to long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Through grants to nonprofit partners across Israel, in coordination with core partners the Jewish Agency for Israel and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), Federations have helped rebuild communities devastated by the attacks and ensuing wars of the past several years.

The impact has been immense, touching virtually every sector of Israeli society. We reached more than 200 communities across Israel, and our work continues with the Rebuild Israel, a system-wide, multi-year framework to support Israel’s recovery and help Israeli society flourish in the aftermath of October 7 and two years of war. Federations have helped displaced residents returning home, expanded trauma care, provided loans and assistance to small businesses, and much more.

We are proud that four recipients of Federation grants have been recognized for their work by President Isaac Herzog, who awarded them the 5786 President's Volunteerism Award.

This honor has been awarded annually since 1974 to those who foster volunteerism in Israeli society and contribute to its societal fabric and social cohesion. Each year, 12 individuals or organizations that exemplify these values – young and old, secular and religious, and members of all faith traditions - are recognized for their efforts.

The four Federation grantees who received this year’s Volunteerism Award are: 

• Elul Association - "Now Is the Time" Program, an adult volunteer service program supporting communities affected by the war;
• MOSHE - Words That Make a Difference, a community-based suicide prevention organization;
• Tikkun Olam Makers, which develops affordable assistive technologies for people with disabilities and wounded veterans; and
• The Lone Soldier Center in Memory of Michael Levin, which supports lone soldiers from the time they receive their draft orders through years after their military service.
   

​Federations are committed to working with groups across Israel to ensure that Israelis from all walks of life can emerge from this challenging period stronger than before. These four organizations share this mission by dedicating themselves to supporting vulnerable populations and strengthening resilience.

The full press release is available in Hebrew here.